Finger drumming could be used in a music program for younger kids who do not know much about music yet like a general music class or beginning band class. I would first teach the basics of rhythms to the students and then have them imitate what I am doing so that they start having an understanding of rhythms. This lesson would mostly be an introduction to the more in depth stuff. Usually kids want something “fun” to do so this could be the introduction to music that is pretty easy. In the program, Melodics, each student can take turns to earn a badge and learn how to use the finger drums since it already shows them how to do it.
Some pros of having to use each type of interface in a music program would be that the students become familiar with each interface. They learn how to play an instrument before actually learning a traditional one. It is also easier for the students to be more creative right away on finger drumming than a traditional instrument. Some cons of having finger drumming in a music program would be that everyone would want to play a percussion instrument instead of all the other wind instruments. Finger drumming should be a gateway instrument to start playing the traditional instruments. Another con of having finger drumming is that it could break down at any moment and down time in a classroom setting is not good.
The pros of using the digital badges in a music program would be that the students are learning and comprehending how to use the interfaces. The more badges they get, the better they are doing at understanding. Another pro of having the digital badges would be that the students feel like they are learning and accomplishing something. Usually kids will try harder if something is given to them for their success. It also gives the students some competition against each other which will help them try harder. Some cons of the digital badges are that the students are only trying to get the badges and not learn the material being taught. They might be playing with the wrong technique just to try and earn that badge. Another con would be that the badge is being seen as the only purpose of finishing the lesson and the only way of being good is by having the badge.
Other ways of using “badges” could be by giving the students a reward for finishing the lesson or assignment. For example, a piece of candy (if the school allows it) a sticker, or a fun toy could be given when finishing the assignment. I think anything physical that can be given to the student would be a lot more beneficial because they like to have a real object instead of just a digital badge that they can brag about for a few minutes.
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